Ham and Cheese Puffs – Welcome to a culinary adventure that will have your taste buds dancing with delight! Our Ham and Cheese Puffs recipe is a true gem that combines the buttery flakiness of puff pastry with the savory goodness of ham, cheese, and spinach. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, picnics, or simply indulging in a scrumptious snack. Join me as we delve into the world of irresistible flavors and learn why this recipe is a must-try for every food lover.
Picture this: It’s a cozy Sunday morning, and the aroma of freshly baked pastries fills the air. As I make my way to the kitchen, my husband and our little family eagerly gathers around the table, their eyes gleaming with anticipation. Today, it’s all about our beloved Ham and Cheese Puffs. This recipe has woven itself into the fabric of our family traditions, becoming a staple that brings us joy and togetherness. With each flaky bite, we savor not just the delicious flavors but also the precious memories created around this delectable treat. Join us on this culinary journey and create your own heartwarming moments with our cherished family recipe.
Why This Recipe Will Win You Over?
- Flaky Puff Pastry Magic: Our Ham and Cheese Puffs start with sheets of buttery, golden puff pastry, which transforms into heavenly layers that cradle the flavorful filling. The delicate crunch and melt-in-your-mouth texture will leave you wanting more.
- Delectable Filling: A symphony of flavors awaits you in each bite. The combination of diced ham, fresh spinach, and Swiss cheese creates a harmonious blend that balances richness with a hint of earthiness. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure they won’t forget.
- Simple yet Impressive: Impress your guests or treat your loved ones to these exquisite puffs without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a delightful introduction to the world of homemade pastry.
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets (about 17.3 ounces or 490g) frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups (300g) cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach
- 1½ cups (170g) Swiss cheese, grated and divided
- 1 large egg white, lightly beaten
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set it aside for now.
Take the thawed puff pastry sheets and cut them into 5-inch (13cm) squares. Place them in the refrigerator to keep them chilled.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and salt, stirring frequently for about 1 minute.
Slowly pour in the room temperature milk while whisking constantly, ensuring a smooth and boiling mixture.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
Add the fresh spinach to the mixture and cook for about 1 minute or until it wilts.
Stir in the diced ham and 1 cup of grated Swiss cheese, combining everything into a delectable mixture. Remove from heat and set it aside.
Take the chilled puff pastry squares and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Place a heaping spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture onto each pastry square, and sprinkle with the remaining grated cheese.
Fold the corners of the pastry squares onto the top, forming a smaller square that encases the filling.
Brush the pastry with the beaten egg white, ensuring all sides are coated for a beautifully golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the puffs have puffed up and turned a delightful golden hue.
Notes:
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding your favorite ingredients, such as caramelized onions or mushrooms, to enhance the flavors even further.
- These puffs are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
As we reach the end of this culinary adventure, it’s time to reflect on the joy and satisfaction that our Ham and Cheese Puffs recipe brings. These delightful treats have the power to bring people together, creating moments of warmth and connection around the table. The flaky puff pastry, savory ham, and cheese filling, and the memories shared with loved ones make this recipe truly special.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a picnic, or simply looking for a delicious snack, these puffs will never disappoint. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make them accessible to both seasoned cooks and beginners in the kitchen. The combination of flavors, textures, and the nostalgia they evoke will leave you yearning for just one more bite.
So, go ahead and embark on your own culinary journey with our Ham and Cheese Puffs. Embrace the joy of creating something beautiful and delicious for yourself and those you love. Build lasting memories around the table, where laughter and conversation intertwine with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pastries. Let this recipe become a part of your story, a cherished tradition that will be passed down through generations.
Thank you for joining us on this delectable adventure. Remember, the heart of every recipe lies in the love and care with which it is prepared. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic unfold. Indulge in the goodness of Ham and Cheese Puffs and savor every moment, for these are the simple pleasures that make life truly extraordinary.
FAQs
Is it possible to make these puffs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the puffs ahead of time by assembling them and then freezing them before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them according to the instructions, adjusting the baking time if needed.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese adds a delightful flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or even a combination of different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
Can I substitute the ham with another protein?
Of course! If you prefer a different protein or want to make it vegetarian, you can substitute the ham with cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a delicious meat-free option. Just ensure the protein is cooked and diced before adding it to the filling.
![](https://8fivefive.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Ham-and-Cheese-Puffs-360x361.jpg)
Ham and Cheese Puffs
Ingredients
- 2 sheets about 17.3 ounces or 490g frozen puff pastry, thawed according to package directions
- 2 tablespoons 28g unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons 16g all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup 240ml whole milk, at room temperature
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups 300g cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups 60g fresh spinach
- 1½ cups 170g Swiss cheese, grated and divided
- 1 large egg white lightly beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Set it aside for now.
- Take the thawed puff pastry sheets and cut them into 5-inch (13cm) squares. Place them in the refrigerator to keep them chilled.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and salt, stirring frequently for about 1 minute.
- Slowly pour in the room temperature milk while whisking constantly, ensuring a smooth and boiling mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add the fresh spinach to the mixture and cook for about 1 minute or until it wilts.
- Stir in the diced ham and 1 cup of grated Swiss cheese, combining everything into a delectable mixture. Remove from heat and set it aside.
- Take the chilled puff pastry squares and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place a heaping spoonful of the ham and cheese mixture onto each pastry square, and sprinkle with the remaining grated cheese.
- Fold the corners of the pastry squares onto the top, forming a smaller square that encases the filling.
- Brush the pastry with the beaten egg white, ensuring all sides are coated for a beautifully golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the puffs have puffed up and turned a delightful golden hue.
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